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‘Western Credit Union Management School’: A new name with the same educational excellence

CLAREMONT, CA (October 16, 2024) — Western Credit Union Management School, a cornerstone institution renowned for fostering the next generation of visionary credit union leaders, has changed its name to reflect the institution’s ongoing commitment to innovation and dedication in meeting the evolving needs of the credit union movement.

This change, from Western CUNA Management School to Western Credit Union Management School, embodies the same distinguished acronym (WCMS). WCMS is the largest school of its kind, with a vast network of esteemed alumni across the western states who serve at all leadership levels within the credit union movement.

Today’s newly announced name marks a milestone in the school’s 64-year history, signifying the school’s commitment to continuous improvement and its recognition of the dynamic, transformative landscape of the credit union leadership landscape. Western Credit Union Management School is a cornerstone of leadership development within the industry. The school has a rich history of providing an acclaimed educational experience rooted in credit union philosophy, which fosters collaboration and nurtures talent that drives credit unions forward across the Western United States.

“Western Credit Union Management School is built on a tradition of head and heart excellence — our institution remains a beacon that continues illuminating the future of our industry,” said Dr. Michael Steinberger, Dean and Chief Academic Officer for WCMS. “This change signifies the school’s unwavering commitment to equipping leaders with the tools and foresight needed to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Western Credit Union Management School will continue to be the hallmark for leadership development in credit unions.”

Brett Martinez, President and CEO of Redwood Credit Union, has experienced the school as a 1994 WCMS graduate, Board of Trustees Member, and sender of current students. He noted the school’s emphasis on adaptability and relevance in today’s world. “In an era of constant change, Western Credit Union Management School’s new name highlights its enduring support for credit unions, exemplifying its strengthened resolve to continue serving credit unions. It demonstrates an understanding of our movement’s continual development and a commitment to providing leaders with relevant skills and knowledge to thrive in our industry’s perpetual change.”

WCMS Board of Trustees Chair Joan Opp, President and CEO of Stanford Federal Credit Union, said the school’s new name is a powerful statement about its dedication to staying ahead of the curve. “For generations, Western Credit Union Management School has been synonymous with excellence in leadership development. This new chapter builds upon our rich legacy while embracing the future. It’s a testament to the school’s enduring impact on our industry and dedication to shaping the next generation of leaders who will undoubtedly continue leaving their mark on our movement.”

Western Credit Union Management School will continue offering its unparalleled academic experience built on credit union philosophy, commitment to impactful leadership, engaging activities, comprehensive curriculum, and immersive instruction that have become synonymous with the school’s success.WCMS’s esteemed faculty will continue providing expert mentorship, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to take on leadership roles within credit unions. This includes:

Distinction in academic and personal development. The cutting edge MBA-level curriculum is externally assessed by both business school faculty through an academic review process and credit union leaders through its Board of Trustees. Given the depth of the program, upon graduation students may be able to transfer up to 18 semester hours toward an undergraduate degree, or 9 semester hours toward a graduate degree (such as a Master’s of Business Administration — MBA).
Pioneering fresh approaches. The school is committed to iterating and continually refining leaders through relevant sessions and stimulating project initiatives, including the WCMS Innovators Challenge.
A commitment to developing leaders for credit unions. WCMS remains steadfast in its commitment to excellence through highly regarded and leading faculty, curriculum, and courses.
Fostering educational access and talent recognition. WCMS is committed to ensuring the best and brightest within the credit union industry can attend regardless of financial need. The school is expanding its scholarship program to guarantee more students can benefit from attending the school.

Investment in the future. The next WCMS session dates are July 13 – 25, 2025, at Pomona College in Claremont, CA. Registration opens in January.

Today’s historical announcement by Western Credit Union Management School has been guided by the insights and support of the institution’s leaders who recognize the importance of the school’s longstanding role in shaping the future of credit unions.

“WCMS remains a vital resource and partner for credit unions, for the benefit and future of credit unions and their staff,” Steinberger added. “The school will continue to evolve its programs and curriculum to equip leaders to address emerging trends, risks, and opportunities. While economic conditions, challenges and even names may change, WCMS’s commitment to educating our students in the tools and mission of credit union leadership remains unwavering.”

About Western CUNA Management School

For more than 60 years, Western Credit Union Management School (WCMS) has helped credit union management staff meet the challenges of the future. WCMS provides the premier educational foundation for current and future credit union leaders, preparing individuals with the depth and breadth they need to contribute to their credit union’s success, the credit union movement, and their own personal career goals.